Calimesa reports rising crime rates and increased fire department activity

During the recent Calimesa City Council meeting held on June 3, 2025, public safety and community health were at the forefront of discussions, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address crime and emergency response in the city.

In a report on crime statistics for May 2025, the council learned that Calimesa experienced a total of 24 Part 1 crimes, which include serious offenses such as aggravated assaults and burglaries. Notably, there were five aggravated assaults and four burglaries, all targeting businesses. Additionally, the police reported 14 larcenies, with a concerning trend of early morning thefts from vehicles. Fortunately, one auto theft incident was resolved with the recovery of the vehicle and the arrest of a suspect. Year-to-date, the city has recorded 74 Part 1 crimes, indicating a need for continued vigilance and community awareness.

The meeting also addressed the efforts of the Calimesa Fire Department, which reported a significant increase in calls for service, totaling 1,054 year-to-date—a rise of 11.5% compared to the previous year. A staggering 71% of these calls were medical emergencies, underscoring the critical role of the fire department in community health. The average response time for emergencies remains just above six minutes, with the southeast section of the city noted for higher call volumes.

In addition to crime and emergency response, the council acknowledged the commendable work of fire department personnel. Several community members expressed gratitude for the professionalism displayed during medical aid calls, reinforcing the importance of local emergency services in maintaining public safety.

As the city continues to navigate these challenges, the council's discussions reflect a commitment to enhancing community safety and responsiveness. The outcomes of this meeting will likely influence future initiatives aimed at addressing public safety concerns and improving emergency services in Calimesa.